Record-breaking St. Paul Saints prepare for playoffs

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KMSP) - The St. Paul Saints set a new franchise record for wins in a season this year. They’ve have had their fair share of success in their two-decade long history, but this season seems to be a blessing.

“I can't explain it, but from day one in this locker room, we knew that we could be something special,” Saints catcher Vinny DiFazio said.

But excitement for their 74 win accomplishment will be short lived as the playoffs begin on Wednesday.

"We've gone through some rough stretches, but we are ready for the playoffs. We will be playing a really good team, but we are ready,” Saints Manager George Tsamis said.

The record is reset to zero as the Saints go into the postseason against Sioux City, a team that's also set an impressive mark this year by breaking the league record for wins.

"Having two teams with over 73 wins, it's truly remarkable,” Tsamis said. “Shame that one of us loses, but it's two excellent teams that have had great years."

The Saints need to work a few more miracles to take home their first ever American Association Championship, but it's a goal that would truly make this year feel perfect.

"It's what every player dreams of doing. We've already popped a few bottles for getting to the playoffs, now I want to do it two more times,” DiFazio said.

A championship is hopefully on the horizon, but the Saints' organization has already won another type of title. Ballpark Digest named the Saints' brand new stadium, CHS Field, the “best new ballpark of the year.”